Wrap-around band tool connector and method of forming

ABSTRACT

A downhole tool including a body configured to be positioned on an outer surface of a tubular. A flexible member may extend circumferentially around the body more than once. The body may be positioned radially-between the outer surface of the tubular and the flexible member, and a tension force on the flexible member may cause the flexible member to apply a radially-inward gripping force on the body and the tubular.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Applicationhaving Ser. No. 61/867,023, which was filed on Aug. 17, 2013. Theentirety of this provisional application is incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

Oilfield tubulars, such as pipes, drill strings, casing, tubing, etc.,may be used to transport fluids into or to produce water, oil, and/orgas from geologic formations through wellbores. In various applications,tools, such as centralizers, scrapers, cement baskets, etc. may beconnected to the exterior of the tubular.

A variety of processes and structures are employed to connect the toolsto the tubulars. One way to connect the tools to the tubular is to weld,fasten, adhere, or crimp the tool directly to the tubular. Similarly, anintermediate structure, often referred to as a stop collar, may beconnected to the tubular using one or more of these processes, and thetool may connect with or otherwise engage the intermediate structure.

Each of these connection processes and/or structures is and usedsuccessfully in a variety of contexts. However, in some applications,welding may impact the metallurgical properties of the tubular, creatinga heat-affected zone (HAZ) that may interfere with the desiredcharacteristics of the tubular. Further, fasteners, such as set screwsand/or teeth, may damage the exterior of the tubular or may not providesufficient holding force. Adhesion also may not provide sufficientholding force, and/or the bonding may be affected by the downholeenvironment, e.g., in corrosive contexts. Additionally, crimping maydamage the tubular, may not provide enough holding force, and/or mayrequire a tool of reduced strength, so as to enable the crimpingprocess.

SUMMARY

A downhole tool is disclosed. The downhole tool may include a bodyconfigured to be positioned on an outer surface of a tubular. Thedownhole tool may also include a flexible member configured to extendcircumferentially around the body more than once. The body is configuredto be positioned radially-between the outer surface of the tubular andthe flexible member. When the tool is installed, a tension force on theflexible member causes the flexible member to apply a radially-inwardgripping force on the body and the tubular.

In another embodiment, the downhole tool may include a body configuredto be positioned on an outer surface of a tubular. The body may includefirst and second end rings and a middle portion positionedaxially-between the first and second end rings. Outer surfaces of thefirst and second end rings may each have a recess formed therein, andthe middle portion may extend radially-outward from the first and secondend rings. Further, the tool may include first and second flexiblemembers, which may each be configured to extend circumferentially-aroundthe body more than once. When received around the body, the first andsecond flexible members may be at least partially positioned within therecesses of the first and second end rings, respectively. When the toolis installed, a tension force on the first and second flexible membersmay cause the first and second flexible members to apply aradially-inward gripping force on the first and second end rings and thetubular.

A method for installing a downhole tool on a tubular is also disclosed.The method may include positioning a body on an outer surface of thetubular. The body may have a first recess formed in an outer surfacethereof. A first flexible member may be wrapped more than once aroundthe body. The first flexible member may be positioned at least partiallywithin the first recess. A first tension force may be applied to thefirst flexible member, and the first tension force may cause the firstflexible member to apply a radially-inward gripping force on the bodyand the tubular.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may best be understood by referring to the followingdescription and accompanying drawings that are used to illustrateembodiments of the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a stop collar installed on atubular, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 1B illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of the stop collarinstalled on the tubular, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 1C illustrates an end view, taken along line 1C-1C in FIG. 1B, ofthe stop collar, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 2A-E illustrate side views of an installation of the stop collaronto the tubular, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate axial end, cross-sectional views of theflexible member of the stop collar, disposed around the tubular,according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 illustrates an axial end, cross-sectional view of a multi-layeredflexible member of the stop collar disposed around the tubular,according to several embodiments.

FIGS. 5-9 illustrate cross-sectional views of the flexible member,according to several embodiments

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a pre-coiled flexible memberof the stop collar, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate side views of a helical-spring embodimentof the flexible member in a contracted configuration and an expandedconfiguration, respectively, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12A illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a stop collarincluding an insert disposed between the flexible member and thetubular, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12B illustrates a side perspective view of the insert disposedaround the tubular, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective view of the flexible member andan engaging ring disposed adjacent thereto and around the tubular,according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 illustrates a side perspective view of the flexible member andtwo profiled engaging rings disposed on opposite axial sides of theflexible member, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 illustrates a side, conceptual view of a stop collar and acentralizer disposed on the tubular, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate a perspective view and an end view,respectively, of one or more inserts disposed around the tubular,according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 17A-C illustrate a perspective view, a side cross-sectional view,and an end view, respectively, of a scraper attached a tubular byflexible members, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 18A-C illustrate a perspective view, a side cross-sectional view,and an end view, respectively, of a hole opener attached to a tubular byflexible members, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 19A-C illustrate a perspective view, a side cross-sectional view,and an end view, respectively, of a cement basket attached to a tubularby a flexible member, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 20A-C illustrate a perspective view, a side cross-sectional view,and an end view, respectively, of a packer and wiper attached to atubular by flexible members, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 21A-C illustrate a perspective view, a side cross-sectional view,and an end view, respectively, of a control line protector attached to atubular by a flexible member, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 22A-C illustrate a perspective view, a side cross-sectional view,and an end view, respectively, of a cylindrical housing attached to atubular by flexible members, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 23A-C illustrate a perspective view, a side cross-sectional view,and an end view, respectively, of a spiral blade attached to a tubular,according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 24A-C illustrate a perspective view, a side cross-sectional view,and an end view, respectively, of a passive flow turbulator attached toa tubular by flexible members, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 25 illustrates a flowchart of a method for installing downhole toolon a tubular, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure describes several embodiments for implementingdifferent features, structures, or functions of the invention.Embodiments of components, arrangements, and configurations aredescribed below to simplify the present disclosure; however, theseembodiments are provided merely as examples and are not intended tolimit the scope of the invention. Additionally, the present disclosuremay repeat reference characters (e.g., numerals) and/or letters in thevarious embodiments and across the Figures provided herein. Thisrepetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not initself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/orconfigurations discussed in the Figures. Moreover, the formation of afirst feature over or on a second feature in the description thatfollows may include embodiments in which the first and second featuresare formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in whichadditional features may be formed interposing the first and secondfeatures, such that the first and second features may not be in directcontact. Finally, the embodiments presented below may be combined in anycombination of ways, e.g., any element from one exemplary embodiment maybe used in any other exemplary embodiment, without departing from thescope of the disclosure.

Additionally, certain terms are used throughout the followingdescription and claims to refer to particular components. As one skilledin the art will appreciate, various entities may refer to the samecomponent by different names, and as such, the naming convention for theelements described herein is not intended to limit the scope of theinvention, unless otherwise specifically defined herein. Further, thenaming convention used herein is not intended to distinguish betweencomponents that differ in name but not function. Additionally, in thefollowing discussion and in the claims, the terms “including” and“comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should beinterpreted to mean “including, but not limited to.” All numericalvalues in this disclosure may be exact or approximate values unlessotherwise specifically stated. Accordingly, various embodiments of thedisclosure may deviate from the numbers, values, and ranges disclosedherein without departing from the intended scope. In addition, unlessotherwise provided herein, “or” statements are intended to benon-exclusive; for example, the statement “A or B” should be consideredto mean “A, B, or both A and B.”

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a perspective view and a side,cross-sectional view, respectively, of a stop collar 100 installed on anoilfield tubular 102, according to an embodiment. As the term is usedherein, an “oilfield tubular” includes a pipe, tubular, tubular member,casing, liner, tubing, drill pipe, drill string, a bar, a rod, astructural member and other like terms. Such oilfield tubulars may be orinclude one or more segments, which may be connected or “made-up”together to form a stand or string; accordingly, an “oilfield tubular”may refer to a joint or segment of a tubular member, or a stand orstring of multiple tubular members joined together. As used herein,“axial” and “axially” refer to a direction that is parallel to a centralor longitudinal axis of the tubular 102; “radial” and “radially” referto a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

In particular, FIG. 1A illustrates the exterior of the stop collar 100,which may include a coating 104. The coating 104 may be or include anadhesive, such as an epoxy, glue, resin, polyurethane, cyanoacrylate,acrylic polymer, hot melt adhesive, contact adhesive, reactive adhesive,light curing adhesive, low temperature metal spray, metal spray (such asWEARSOX® commercially available from Antelope Oil Tool & Mfg. Co.,Houston, Tex.), combinations thereof, and/or the like. The coating 104may be selected, for example, so as to exhibit material propertiessuitable for exposure to the downhole environment and running-in alongwith the tubular 102. Such material properties may include low friction,high strength, and/or the like. Further, the stop collar 100 may havetwo axial ends 106, 108, which may, in at least one embodiment, bedefined by the coating 104, as shown. One or both of the axial ends 106,108 may extend straight in a radial direction from the tubular 102and/or may be tapered, beveled, rounded, or otherwise shaped.

Further, the coating 104 may extend entirely over the stop collar 100,as shown, may extend partially thereabout, and/or may or may not extendradially inward into contact with the tubular 102. In some embodiments,a plastic, elastomeric, composite, metallic, etc. sleeve may bepositioned over the coating 104, e.g., with the coating 104 providing anadhesive coupling the sleeve to a remainder of the stop collar 100.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 1B, the stop collar 100 may include aflexible member 110, which may be disposed radially between the tubular102 and at least a portion of the coating 104. For example, the flexiblemember 110 may be wrapped more than once (e.g., one 360 degree turn plusany fraction of a subsequent turn) around the tubular 102. The flexiblemember 110 may apply a radially-inward gripping force on the tubular102. For example, the flexible member 110 may be wrapped helicallyaround the tubular 102, with the gripping force being generated byapplying a tension on the flexible member 110 during such helicalwrapping. In another embodiment, the flexible member 110 may be heatedafter being wrapped around the tubular to or near to a red-hottransition temperature, which may cause the flexible member 110 toshrink, resulting in a tension force in the flexible member 110 thatcauses the flexible member 110 to apply a radially-inward gripping forceon the tubular 102. Thereafter, the flexible member 110 may be cooledsuch that the flexible member 110 retains its shrunken length, therebymaintaining the radially-inward gripping force.

In such a helically-wrapped embodiment of the flexible member 110, theflexible member 110 may define turns 112 (e.g., 360 degree increments)around the tubular 102. Successive turns 112 may be adjacent to oneanother, generally in an axial direction along the tubular 102. In one,some, or all of the turns 112, the flexible member 110 may abut theflexible member 110 contained in at least one adjacent turn 112. Assuch, the flexible member 110 may form a generally continuous surfacethat is spaced radially apart from the tubular 102.

The coating 104 may be applied at least partially on the exterior(radial outside, facing away from the tubular 102) of the flexiblemember 110 by spraying, brushing, rolling, etc. In some embodiments, thecoating 104 may be applied such that it extends axially past the firstand last turns 112, so as to form the ends 106, 108, as noted above andshown in FIG. 1B. As such, the flexible member 110 may be at leastpartially embedded in the coating 104.

Furthermore, in at least one embodiment, an adhesive, which may or maynot be formed from the same material as the coating 104, may bepositioned radially between the flexible member 110 and the tubular 102,as will be described in greater detail below. In addition, the coating104 may extend radially past (or through) the flexible member 110,between the ends 106, 108, and into engagement with the tubular 102. Forexample, the coating 104 may extend through spaces defined between theturns 112. Additionally or alternatively, holes may be formed in theflexible member 110, so as to allow traversal of the flexible member 110by the coating 104.

The flexible member 110 may be an elongate member, which may be orinclude a monolithic or braided cable, wire, ribbon, string, cord, line,rope, band, tape, coil spring, multi-strand wire, wire rope and anymember having the flexibility and strength to be wrapped about the outersurface of the tubular 102. For example, the flexible member 110 mayconstructed from a metal, plastic, composite, or any combinationthereof. In one embodiment, the flexible member 110 includes a steelcable, e.g., a stainless steel cable. Further, the flexible member 110may be one unitary length of material, e.g., a length providing adesired holding force once it is wrapped (and/or adhered) on theoilfield tubular. In other embodiments, the flexible member 110 mayinclude multiple segments that are attached together (e.g., end-on-end).

FIG. 1C illustrates an axial end view of the flexible member 110disposed around the tubular 102, according to an embodiment, e.g., astaken along lines 1C-1C of FIG. 1B. As shown, the flexible member 110may include ends 114, e.g., one at the beginning of the first turn 112proximal the first end 106. It will be appreciated that an axial view ofthe flexible member 110 proximal the second end 108 may be substantiallysimilar, also providing a circumferential end where the flexible member110 terminates. The ends 114 may be cut at angles, such that the ends114 taper, and thereby provide a generally flush or gradual change inthe end surface for the flexible member 110.

FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate an installation sequence for the stop collar 100,according to an embodiment. Beginning with FIG. 2A, installation collars200, 202 may be positioned on the tubular 102 and spaced axially apart,e.g., such that the inboard sides 204, 206, respectively, of the collars200, 202 are positioned generally where the ends 106, 108 (FIGS. 1A and1B) of the stop collar 100 will be positioned. In some embodiments, suchinstallation collars 200, 202 may be omitted from use duringinstallation. In an embodiment, the installation collars 200, 202 may beeach be provided by a unitary ring that may be slid over an end of thetubular 102. In another embodiment, the installation collars 200, 202may be provided by a unitary ring that is flexible and includes anaxially-extending gap, such that two circumferential ends are defined.In such an embodiment, the installation collars 200, 202 may be flexedso as to receive the tubular 102 laterally. In another embodiment, theinstallation collars 200, 202 may be provided by two or more arcuatesections that are connected together (e.g., hinged, clamped, fastened,etc.). It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, one of theinstallation collars 200 may be provided by one of the embodiments justdescribed, while the other one of the installation collars 202 may beprovided according to another embodiment.

Further, a layer 208 may be applied to the tubular 102, e.g., at leastpartially between the inboard sides 204, 206 of the collars 200, 202.The layer 208 may be or include an adhesive, such as an epoxy, glue,resin, polyurethane, cyanoacrylate, acrylic polymer, hot melt adhesive,contact adhesive, reactive adhesive, light curing adhesive, lowtemperature metal spray, metal spray (such as WEARSOX®), combinationsthereof, and/or the like. The layer 208 may be employed to increase theholding force provided by the stop collar 100, avoid the flexible member110 biting into the tubular 102, and/or the like. The layer 208 may coatthe tubular 102 entirely between the installation collars 200, 202 or,in other embodiments, may include axially and/orcircumferentially-extending gaps.

Before or after the layer 208 is cured (e.g., when using an adhesive forthe layer 208), a first turn 112 of the flexible member 110 may bedisposed around the tubular 102, between the installation collars 200,202, e.g., proximal to the installation collar 200, and on the layer208. The first turn 112 may include the end 114-1 of the flexible member110. Further, the end 114-1 may be secured in place, such that it isgenerally stationary relative to the tubular 102 during installation.For example, the end 114-1 may be held in place, with tension applied tothe flexible member 110, and the end 114-1 welded to a second turn 112of the flexible member 110. In other embodiments, the flexible member110 may be adhered to itself near the end 114-1, clamped or fastened toitself, or the like. In other embodiments, the end 114-1 of the flexiblemember 110 may be secured to the installation collar 200, which may besecured against rotation. In other embodiments, a section of theflexible member 110 proximal to the end 114-1 may be turned, e.g.,toward an axial direction, and held temporarily in place while one ormore additional turns 112 of the flexible member 110 are received overthe end 114-1.

Referring now to FIG. 2B, the flexible member 110 may be helicallywrapped around the tubular 102, e.g., as successive turns 112 areprovided. In an embodiment, the tubular 102 may be turned while theflexible member 110 is fed laterally onto the tubular 102, e.g., from aspool. A friction or resistance (e.g., as applied by the spool of theflexible member 110 resisting the extension of the flexible member 110)may apply tension to the flexible member 110, causing the flexiblemember 110 to apply a radially-inwardly directed gripping force on thetubular 102. Thus, the gripping force supplied by the flexible member110 may provide the holding force for the stop collar 100, onceinstalled. In another embodiment, the tubular 102 may remain stationarywhile the flexible member 110 is wrapped therearound. In yet anotherembodiment, the tubular 102 may rotate and the flexible member 110 maybe moved around the tubular 102, e.g., such that both components are inmotion during the installation process. As shown, the successive turns112 may abut against one another; however, in other embodiments, two ormore of the adjacent turns 112 may be spaced apart, such that they donot abut.

In some embodiments, applying the layer 208 and wrapping the flexiblemember 110 may be an iterative process. For example, a certain width,e.g., less than the distance between the installation collars 200, 202,of the layer 208 may be applied onto the tubular 102, and then theflexible member 110 may be wrapped over that width of the layer 208.Then, another width of the layer 208 may be applied, and then flexiblemember 110 wrapped over that width. This process may repeat one or moretimes. In other embodiments, the layer 208 may be applied to the extentneeded (e.g., all or a portion of the width between the installationcollars 200, 202), and then the flexible member 110 may be wrappedaround the tubular 102 continuously.

As shown in FIG. 2C, the helical wrapping of the flexible member 110around the tubular 102 may continue, e.g., until the flexible member 110abuts both of the installation collars 200, 202. In some embodiments,the wrapping of the flexible member 110 end prior to the flexible member110 spanning the entire distance between the installation collars 200,202.

In addition, in at least some embodiments, two or more adjacent turns112 may be welded, adhered, or otherwise secured together. For example,as shown, several welds 210 may be created, attaching together the turns112. Such welding (and/or otherwise attaching) together the turns 112may further serve to retain the position of the flexible member 110.

Referring to FIG. 2D, with the flexible member 110 in place, the coating104 may be applied. As noted above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, thecoating 104 may be an adhesive, spray metal, and/or the like. Thecoating 104 may be deposited between the installation collars 200, 202.The radial height of the installation collars 200, 202 may beapproximately equal to, or greater than, the thickness of the flexiblemember 110. Accordingly, the installation collars 200, 202 may actsimilar to the sides of a mold, keeping the coating 104 on the flexiblemember 110, and forming the ends 106, 108.

In some embodiments, e.g., due to the helical shape of the flexiblemember 110, a space may be defined between the ends of the flexiblemember 110 and the inboard sides 204, 206 of the installation collars200, 202. This space may be filled with the coating 104, so as toprovide the axial ends 106, 108 with a generally annular shape. Further,in some cases, the ends of the flexible member 110 may not contact thecollars 200, 202, and thus the coating 104 may extend past the flexiblemember 110 and define the ends 106, 108, e.g., as shown in FIG. 1B.

In at least one embodiment, a shell may be placed around the flexiblemember 110 and/or the coating 104. The shell may have an outer surfacethat is planar or outwardly-curved (e.g., convex), and the inner surfaceof the shell may include a plurality of projections, curved ridges, afish scale pattern, or the like. The shell may be structurallyreinforced with a strut, a brace, a rib, or the like that extendsbetween two opposite sides of the shell. The shell may be formed from acomposite material (e.g., a fiber-reinforced resin material), which maybe surface-treated before molding of the shell. The shell may have atleast one inlet configured to receive a liquid material such as abonding agent. The bonding agent may be used to couple the shell to theouter surface of the tubular and the flexible members. The flexiblemember may provide support to the shell. Additional details of the shellmay be found in PCT Application No. PCT/EP2013/057416, filed Apr. 9,2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Referring to FIG. 2E, once the coating 104 is applied, the installationcollars 200, 202 may be removed from the tubular 102, e.g., by slidingthe installation collars 200, 202 over opposite ends of the tubular 102or by removing one or more of the installation collars 200, 202laterally, e.g., by opening a hinge. The remaining structure maygenerally provide the stop collar 100, according to an embodiment. Insome cases, further forming, e.g., to taper, round, smooth, roughen, orotherwise shape the ends 106, 108 and/or the outer diameter of thecoating 104, may be conducted. Further, a sleeve or any other structuremay be coupled with the coating 104 and/or to the flexible member 110.

Although described above with reference to a relatively thin (in axialdimension and relative to the total axial width of the stop collar 100)flexible member 110, it will be appreciated that the flexible member 110may have a larger axial width, up to a width that equals the axialdimension, from end 106 to end 108, of the stop collar 100. For example,rather than helically wrapping the flexible member 110 around thetubular 102, each turn of the tubular 102 with respect to the flexiblemember 110 (either the tubular 102 or the flexible member 110 may bemoving, as described above) may result in a complete layer of theflexible member 110 being deposited. Thus, as will be described below,multiple layers of the flexible member 110 may be wrapped around thetubular 102, e.g., in concentric layers.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate two axial, cross-sectional views of theflexible member 110, similar to the view shown in FIG. 1C, according totwo embodiments. As depicted in FIG. 3A, in some instances, the tubular102 may be generally elliptical, rather than circular. The flexiblemember 110 may, however, be configured to wrap around such anon-circular geometry. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 3B, the tubular 102may be polygonal, e.g., rectangular, in shape, and the flexible member110 may be disposed along the perimeter of the tubular 102. Accordingly,embodiments of the stop collar 100 may be configured to be disposedaround any shape.

FIG. 4 illustrates an axial end-view of a multi-layered flexible member400, according to an embodiment. The multi-layered flexible member 400may include at least two layers 401, 402. In an embodiment, the flexiblemember 110 may provide the first layer 401, which may, as discussedabove, be disposed against the tubular 102. In addition, the secondlayer 402 may be disposed radially outward from the first layer 401,e.g., provided as a second flexible member that is wrapped around theflexible member 110. The second layer 402 may be wrapped around at leasta portion of the flexible member 110, e.g., using an embodiment of thewrapping process discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A-2E. Any numberof layers 401, 402 may be provided, e.g., so as to achieve a desiredpositive outer diameter (e.g., the radial distance added by theprovision of the stop collar 100 extending from the tubular 102), whichmay be larger than a thickness of the flexible member 110.

Further, in some embodiments, the first and second layers 401, 402 mayhave differently-shaped cross-sections. For example, the first layer 401may have a circular cross-section, while the second layer 402 may have abraided cross-section. Any other combination of cross-sections may beprovided for the first and second layers 401, 402, whether the same ordifferent.

In another embodiment, the flexible member 110 may provide both of thefirst and second layers 401, 402. For example, in an embodiment in whichthe flexible member 110 is a relatively thin (relative to the axiallength of the stop collar 100), helically-wrapped member, the firstlayer 401 may be constructed by wrapping the flexible member 110 aroundthe tubular 102, and then the wrapping direction may be reversed, withthe second layer 402 of the flexible member 110 being wrapped around thefirst layer 401 thereof. In another embodiment, the flexible member 110may have the same width as the stop collar, and thus each turn of thetubular 102 may provide an additional layer.

FIGS. 5-9 illustrate five example cross-sections for the flexible member110. As shown in FIG. 5, the cross-section of the flexible member 110may be generally circular, e.g., as with a solid wire or other flexiblecylindrical structure. FIG. 6 illustrates a square-shaped cross-section,and FIG. 7 similarly illustrates a rectangular-shaped cross-section,which may be provided in an embodiment in which the flexible member 110is formed as a band. FIG. 8 illustrates a more complex cross-section forthe flexible member 110, which may be made of a plurality of filaments800. The filaments 800 may be braided or otherwise combined into strands802, which may in turn be braided or otherwise combined to form thecross-section of the flexible member 110. Although seven strands 802 areillustrated, any number of strands 802 may be employed, each of whichmay be constructed using any number of filaments 800.

Moreover, as depicted in FIG. 9, the flexible member 110 may beconstructed from two or more bodies. For example, the flexible member110 may include a mandrel 900 and a sheath 902, which may be generallyconcentric. The mandrel 900 may have any shape cross-section and may besolid, hollow, or formed from a combination of filaments, strands, etc.The sheath 902 may fit over and/or around the mandrel 900. The mandrel900 may be attached to the sheath 902, but in other embodiments may bemovable therein.

Still referring to FIG. 9, FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of apre-wound or pre-coiled flexible member 110 that includes the mandrel900 and the sheath 902, according to an embodiment. The flexible member110 may be pro-wound in that it is formed into the illustrated helixprior to installation around a tubular (e.g., the tubular 102 shown inFIG. 1A).

Further, ends 1002, 1004 of the mandrel 900 may extend from the sheath902. In a pre-coiled embodiment, the coil of flexible member 110 mayinitially have an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameterof the tubular (e.g., tubular 102), and may thus slide onto the tubular.Upon reaching an installation point, which may or may not include alayer of adhesive, such as the layer 208, a tension force may be appliedto the ends 1002, 1004, thereby reducing the diameter of the mandrel900. In some cases, at least initially, the sheath 902 may move with themandrel 900, but may become engaged between the mandrel 900 and thetubular. Continued application of force on the ends 1002, 1004 may causethe mandrel 900 to move relative to the sheath 902, and the sheath 902may be compressed between the tubular and the mandrel 900. In someembodiments, the sheath 902 may be made from a relatively soft material,such as a plastic, elastomer, or relatively soft metal, which mayprevent the mandrel 900, which may be made of a harder material, fromdamaging the tubular during constriction of the mandrel 900.

In other embodiments, the flexible member 110 including the mandrel 900and the sheath 902 may be wound as it is installed onto the tubular 102,for example, similar to the way in which the flexible member 110 isinstalled as shown in and described above with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E.In an embodiment, the flexible member 110 may be wrapped loosely aroundthe tubular 102, and then the tension applied to the ends 1002, 1004, soas to contract the mandrel 900 and cause the flexible member 110 to gripthe tubular.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate side views of another pre-wound,helical-spring embodiment of the flexible member 1100 for use in thestop collar 100. In particular, FIG. 11A shows the flexible member 1100in a first or “natural” configuration, and FIG. 11B shows the flexiblemember 1100 in an expanded configuration. In an embodiment, the flexiblemember 1100 may be formed with a first or “natural” length L₁ and afirst or “natural” diameter D₁, as shown in FIG. 11A. The natural lengthL₁ and natural diameter D₁ may be the length and diameter, respectively,that the helical spring of the flexible member 110 has when no externalforce is applied. The flexible member 1100 may also define a certainnumber of turns 112 in the natural configuration.

Prior to installing the flexible member 1100 onto the tubular, a torqueforce may be applied to the flexible member 1100, e.g., to the ends1102, 1104 thereof. The torque force may serve to expand the flexiblemember 1100 at least to a second diameter D₂, e.g., by reducing thenumber of turns 112. Such torque may also create spaces between theturns 112, which may cause the length of the flexible member 1100 toincrease to a second length L₂. The flexible member 1100 in the expandedconfiguration may be received over a tubular having a diameter that isbetween the first and second diameters D₁, D₂ of the flexible member1100. Upon reaching a desired installation location, the torque forcemay be removed, causing the flexible member 1100 to contract. In anotherembodiment, a temporary adhesive may be employed to retain the flexiblemember 1100 in the expanded configuration for a duration, beforebreaking down and allowing the flexible member 1100 to contract. Fullcontraction to the first, natural diameter D₁ may be prevented by theflexible member 1100 bearing on the tubular, and thus the flexiblemember 1100 may apply a spring force on the tubular, which may providethe gripping/holding force.

FIG. 12A illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of the stop collar 100including an insert 1200, according to an embodiment. FIG. 12Billustrates a side view of the insert 1200, with the remainder of thestop collar 100 omitted for purposes of illustration. The insert 1200(which may also be referred to as a “spline”) may be formed from aplurality of segments 1202. Each segment 1202 may include a head 1204and an elongate body 1206. The segments 1202 may be disposed in analternating orientation, such that the head 1204 of one segment 1202 isdisposed at an axially opposite side to the head 1204 of an adjacentsegment 1202, as shown. Thus, the elongate body 1206 of each segment1202 may serve as a spacer between circumferentially-adjacent segments1202. In other embodiments, each segment 1202 may include two heads1204, e.g., one on each axial side thereof.

Further, the heads 1204 may extend radially outwards from the tubular102, farther than the elongate bodies 1206. The heads 1204 may thuscollectively define end rings on either side of the insert 1200, whichmay be engaged by a tool or another device disposed around the tubular102, e.g., in the wellbore. For example, the combination of the elongatebodies 1206 and the flexible member 120 may extend to approximately thesame radial position as the radial-outside of the heads 1204; however,in other embodiments, the heads 1204 may extend farther outwards than,or not as far outwards as, the flexible member 110 disposed on theelongate bodies 1206.

The segments 1202 may be connected together, e.g., using an elastic bandreceived around the tubular 102. In another embodiment, the segments1202 may be unitary, glued, snapped, hooked, or otherwise held togethercircumferentially, so as to facilitate installation around the tubular102.

In operation, the insert 1200 may, as shown, be sandwiched between theflexible member 110 and the tubular 102. The insert 1200 may befabricated at least partially from a material that is relatively softcompared to the tubular 102 and the flexible member 110. For example,the insert 1200 may be made from a molded plastic, an elastomer, anotherplastic, a composite, a relatively soft metal, etc. Thus, the insert1200 may be compressed when the flexible member 110 is received aroundthe tubular 102, and may provide a buffer between the flexible member110 and the tubular 102, e.g., to reduce the risk of damaging thetubular 102, to increase holding forces (e.g., by providing ahigh-friction insert 1200 and/or by including teeth or other markingstructures on an inner surface and/or outer surface of the insert 1200),and/or the like.

In at least one embodiment, the insert 1200 may contain an adhesive,which may be released upon compression of the insert 1200 by theflexible member 110. For example, the insert 1200 may includeencapsulated pockets of adhesive therein, and may include holes orpredetermined rupture locations. When the flexible member 110 provides aradially-inward gripping force, the adhesive may migrate out of thepockets and into contact with the flexible member 110, forming a bondbetween the flexible member 110 and the tubular 102 and/or the insert1200.

FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of the flexible member 110 and anengaging ring 1300 of the stop collar 100, according to an embodiment.The engaging ring 1300 may be made from an annular band of material,such as metal, plastic, elastomer, composite, etc. The engaging ring1300 may be secured at least in an axial position by fixing the engagingring 1300 to either or both of the tubular 102 and/or the flexiblemember 110, e.g., using adhesives, welding, set screws, etc. In otherembodiments, the engaging ring 1300 may be free to move about and/oralong the tubular 102, except as constrained by axial engagement withthe flexible member 110 and any other collars or protrusions disposed onthe tubular 102. Further, the engaging ring 1300 may be configured tobear upon, and thus transmit a generally axially-directed force againsta side 1302 of the flexible member 110.

Accordingly, the engaging ring 1300 may provide a generally uniform,radially-extending surface against which tools, etc., may engage andpush toward the flexible member 110. The engaging ring 1300 may thus besandwiched between the flexible member 110 and the force-applying member(e.g., tool, component, etc.). As such, the flexible member 110 maycontinue providing the holding force, while the engaging ring 1300 mayprevent the force-applying member from damage caused by engaging the end114-1 of the helical, flexible member 110.

It will be appreciated that a second engaging ring may be provided,e.g., adjacent to the opposite axial side 1304 of the flexible member110, e.g., to provide for engagement with a force-applying member in anopposite direction.

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of two engaging rings 1400, 1402 oneither axial side 1302, 1304 of a flexible member 110, according to anembodiment. The engaging rings 1400, 1402 may be generally similar inform and/or function to the engaging ring 1300 of FIG. 13; however, theengaging rings 1400, 1402 may include profiled inner surfaces 1404, 1406that face in the axial direction. For example, the inner surface 1404,may begin at a certain thickness at a starting point, and decrease inthickness as proceeding circumferentially around the engaging ring 1400,until reaching the stating point, at which point the thickness mayabruptly (or smoothly) return to the original thickness. The opposingengaging ring 1402 may be similarly constructed, but the profiled innersurface 1406 thereof may be a mirror image of the profiled inner surface1404. That is, for example, the profiled inner surface 1406 may smoothlyreduce in thickness from the starting point as proceeding clockwise,while the profiled inner surface 1404 may smoothly reduce in thicknessfrom the starting point in a counterclockwise direction.

The profiled inner surfaces 1404, 1406 may thus define a shoulder 1408,1410 at the starting points thereof. The shoulders 1408, 1410 may beconfigured to receive the ends 114-1, 114-2, respectively, of theflexible member 110, and the profiled inner surfaces 1404, 1406 may beconfigured to engage a maximum surface area of the flexible member 110along the proximal turn 112.

FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of the stop collar 100 installed on thetubular 102 and straddled by a centralizer 1500, according to anembodiment. The centralizer 1500 may include two end collars 1502, 1504,which are received around the tubular 102 and separated axially apart. Aplurality of ribs 1506, which may be rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible,bow-springs extend between the end collars 1502, 1504 and are disposedat circumferential intervals around the tubular 102. The ribs 1506 mayextend radially outward from the tubular 102 and may be configured toengage a surrounding tubular (e.g., a casing, liner, or wellbore wall),so as to maintain a generally annular stand-offbetween the tubular 102and the surrounding tubular 102.

As shown, the end collars 1502, 1504 may be disposed on opposite axialsides of the stop collar 100, i.e., in a “straddled” configuration. Inthis embodiment, the ribs 1506 extend over the stop collar 100. Inaddition, engaging members may be coupled with one or both of the endcollars 1502, 1504 and the stop collar 100. In other embodiments, one ormore stop collars 100 may be disposed on the outboard axial ends of theend collars 1502, 1504.

The end collars 1502, 1504 may bear on the stop collar 100, e.g., whenpassing through a wellbore restriction or otherwise experiencingaxially-directed (e.g., drag) forces. The stop collar 100 may provide aholding force, which may retain the axial position of the centralizer1500 with respect to the tubular 102.

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate a perspective view and a cross-sectionalview, respectively, of one or more helical inserts (three are shown:1630A-C) disposed around the tubular 1600, according to an embodiment.The inserts 1630A-C may be positioned radially between the outer surfaceof the tubular 1600 and the flexible member 1604. The inserts 1630A-Cmay be at least partially disposed within adhesive. For example, theadhesive may be positioned within the void caused by the inserts 1630A-Cbetween the outer surface of the tubular 1600 and the flexible member1604.

As shown, the inserts 1630A-C may be wrapped helically around thetubular 1600 with a greater lead and/or pitch than the flexible member1604. However, in other embodiments, the inserts 1630A-C may besubstantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular 1600. Theinserts 1630A-C may be longitudinal rods that provide structural supportto the tubular 1600. In another embodiment, the inserts 1630A-C may beconduits and/or cables for transmitting power, communication signals,fluids, and the like.

In at least one embodiment, a shell may be placed around the flexiblemember 1604. The shell may have an outer surface that is planar oroutwardly-curved (e.g., convex), and the inner surface of the shell mayinclude a plurality of projections, curved ridges, a fish scale pattern,or the like. The shell may be structurally reinforced with a strut, abrace, a rib, or the like that extends between two opposite sides of theshell. The shell may be formed from a composite material (e.g., afiber-reinforced resin material), which may be surface-treated beforemolding of the shell. The shell may have at least one inlet configuredto receive a liquid material such as a bonding agent. The bonding agentmay be used to couple the shell to the outer surface of the tubular andthe flexible members. The flexible member may provide support to theshell. Additional details of the shell may be found in PCT ApplicationNo. PCT/EP2013/057416, filed Apr. 9, 2013, which is hereby incorporatedby reference in its entirety.

FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of a scraper 1701 attached to atubular 1700 by flexible members 1704A, B, according to an embodiment.The scraper 1701 may include a hollow, substantially cylindrical bodyhaving one or more blades (four are shown: 1732A-D) extendingradially-outward therefrom. Each blade 1732A-D may include one or moreangled notches 1733 extending radially-inward from the outer surfacethereof. As shown, each blade 1732A-D includes three angled notches 1733that are axially-offset from one another with respect to thelongitudinal axis of the tubular 1700. The blades 1732A-D may bepositioned axially-between opposing end rings 1716, 1718.

FIG. 17B illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the scraper 1701attached to the tubular 1700, according to an embodiment. The scraper1701 may include attachment portions 1720A, B. The attachment portions1720A, B may be configured to move radially-inward to grip the tubular1700 when a radial force is applied. In at least one embodiment, theattachment portions 1720A, B may be splines, metal mesh, collapsiblemetal with holes, etc. The attachment portions 1720A, B may bepositioned axially between the end rings 1716, 1718 and the blades1732A-D. The attachment portions 1720A, B may be unitary, segmented, cutalong an axial line, etc. The attachment portions 1720A, B may definerecesses that extend radially inward from the outer surface of thescraper 1701 with respect to the longitudinal axis of the tubular 1700.The flexible members 1704A, B may be wrapped around the scraper 1701 tosecure the scraper 1701 to the tubular 1700. More particularly, theflexible members 1704A, B may be wrapped (e.g., helically) around theattachment portions 1720A, B, respectively, to provide a radially-inwardgripping force against the tubular 1700. An adhesive 1702A, B may bedisposed within the recesses formed by the attachment portions 1720A, B,respectively. The adhesive 1702A, B may at least partially surround thewraps of the flexible members 1704A, B. In at least one embodiment, ashell, as described above with respect to PCT Application No.PCT/EP2013/057416, may be placed around the flexible members 1704A, B.

FIG. 17C illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the scraper 1701attached to the tubular 1700, according to an embodiment. The blades1732A-D may be circumferentially-offset from one another around thelongitudinal axis of the tubular 1700 (e.g., by about 900). As shown,the outer surface of the blades 1732A-D may be positionedradially-outward from the end rings 1716, 1718 (FIG. 17B).

FIG. 18A illustrates a perspective view of a hole opener 1801 attachedto a tubular 1800 using flexible members 1804A, B, according to anembodiment. The hole opener 1801 may include a hollow, substantiallycylindrical body having one or more blades (four are shown: 1832A-D)extending radially-outward therefrom. The blades 1832A-D may bepositioned axially-between opposing end rings 1816, 1818.

FIG. 18B illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the hole opener 1801attached to the tubular 1800, according to an embodiment. The blades1832A-D may include a first axial side 1833 and a second axial side1834. A distance between an outer surface of the first axial side 1833and the longitudinal axis of the tubular 1800 may increase moving in afirst axial direction (e.g., to the right, as shown in FIG. 18B). Asshown, the outer surface of the first axial side 1833 may be curved(e.g., convex); however, in other embodiments the outer surface may beconcave or straight. A distance between an outer surface of the secondaxial side 1834 and the longitudinal axis of the tubular 1800 maydecrease moving in the first axial direction (e.g., to the right, asshown in FIG. 18B). As shown, the outer surface of the second axial side1834 may be stepped to form a plurality of ridges or teeth.

The hole opener 1801 may include attachment portions 1820A, B. Theattachment portions 1820A, B may be configured to move radially-inwardto grip the tubular 1800 when a radial force is applied. In at least oneembodiment, the attachment portions 1820A, B may be splines, metal mesh,collapsible metal with holes, etc. The attachment portions 1820A, B maybe unitary, segmented, cut along an axial line, etc. The firstattachment portion 1820A may be positioned axially-between the end ring1816 and the blades 1832A-D, and the second attachment portion 1820B maybe positioned axially-between the blades 1832A-D and the end ring 1818.The attachment portions 1820A, B may define recesses that extendradially-inward from the outer surface of the hole opener 1801 withrespect to the longitudinal axis of the tubular 1800. The flexiblemembers 1804A, B may be wrapped around the hole opener 1801 to securethe hole opener 1801 to the tubular 1800. More particularly, theflexible members 1804A, B may be wrapped (e.g., helically) around theattachment portions 1820A, B, respectively, to provide a radially-inwardgripping force against the tubular 1800. An adhesive 1802A, B may bedisposed within the recesses formed by the attachment portions 1820A, B,respectively. The adhesive 1802A, B may at least partially surround thewraps of the flexible members 1804A, B. In at least one embodiment, ashell, as described above with respect to PCT Application No.PCT/EP2013/057416, may be placed around the flexible members 1804A, B.

FIG. 18C illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the hole opener 1801attached to the tubular 1800, according to an embodiment. The blades1832A-D may be circumferentially-offset from one another around thelongitudinal axis of the tubular 1800 (e.g., by about 90°). As shown,the outer surface of the blades 1832A-D may be positioned radiallyoutward from the end ring 1816.

FIG. 19A illustrates a perspective view of a cement basket 1901 attachedto a tubular 1900 using a flexible member 1904, according to anembodiment. The cement basket 1901 may include a hollow, frustoconicalbody made up of a plurality of bows 1934A, B. The bows 1934A, B may forma basket, which may define a void 1936 between the outer surface of thetubular 1900 and the inner surface of the bows 1934A, B. A plurality ofaxial recesses 1935 may be formed in the outer surface of the cementbasket 1901. Each recess 1935 may be positioned circumferentiallybetween adjacent bows 1934A, B. First and second end rings 1916, 1918may be positioned on a same axial side of the basket 1936, as describedin more detail below with reference to FIG. 19B.

FIG. 19B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the cement basket1901 attached to the tubular 1900, according to an embodiment. Adistance between the bows 1934A, B and the inner surface of the tubular1900 may decrease moving in a first axial direction (e.g., to the right,as shown in FIG. 19B). This may form the frustoconical cement basket1901. The axial end of each bow 1934A, B that is closest to the outersurface of the tubular 1900 (e.g., the right end, as shown in FIG. 19B)may be coupled to or integral with a first end ring 1918.

The cement basket 1901 may include an attachment portion 1920. Theattachment portion 1920 may be configured to move radially-inward togrip the tubular 1900 when a radial force is applied. In at least oneembodiment, the attachment portion 1900 may be a spline, a metal mesh,collapsible metal with holes, etc. The attachment portion 1920 may bepositioned axially between the end rings 1916, 1918. The attachmentportion 1920 may be unitary, segmented, cut along an axial line, etc.The attachment portion 1920 may define a recess that extends radiallyinward from the outer surface of the end rings 1916, 1918 with respectto the longitudinal axis of the tubular 1900. The flexible member 1904may be wrapped around the cement basket 1901 to secure the cement basket1901 to the tubular 1900. More particularly, the flexible member 1904may be wrapped (e.g., helically) around the attachment portion 1920 toprovide a radially-inward gripping force against the tubular 1900. Anadhesive 1902 may be disposed within the recess formed by the attachmentportion 1920. The adhesive 1902 may at least partially surround thewraps of the flexible member 1904. In at least one embodiment, a shell,as described above with respect to PCT Application No.PCT/EP2013/057416, may be placed around the flexible members 1904.

FIG. 19C illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the cement basket1901 attached to the tubular 1900, according to an embodiment. The bows1934A, B may be circumferentially-offset from one another around thelongitudinal axis of the tubular 1900. Although 18 bows 1934A, B areshown, it will be appreciated that more or fewer bows 1934A, B may beimplemented.

FIG. 20A illustrates a perspective view of a packer and wiper 2001attached to a tubular 2000 using flexible members 2004A, B, according toan embodiment. The packer and wiper 2001 may include a frustoconicalbody made up of a plurality of packer and wiper members 2032A, B. Thepacker and wiper members 2032A, B may define a void 2033 between theouter surface of the tubular 2000 and the inner surface of the packerand wiper members 2032A, B. First and second end rings 2016, 2018 may bepositioned on opposing axial sides of the packer and wiper 2001, asdescribed in more detail below with reference to FIG. 20B.

FIG. 20B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the packer and wiper2001 attached to the tubular 2000, according to an embodiment. Thepacker and wiper members 2032A, B may include a first axial side 2034and a second axial side 2035. A distance between an outer surface of thefirst axial side 2034 and the longitudinal axis of the tubular 2000 mayincrease moving in a first axial direction (e.g., to the right, as shownin FIG. 20B). As shown, the outer surface of the first axial side 2034may be substantially straight; however, in other embodiments the outersurface may be curved (e.g., concave or convex). A distance between anouter surface of the second axial side 2035 and the longitudinal axis ofthe tubular 2000 may also increase moving in the first axial direction(e.g., to the right, as shown in FIG. 20B). As such, the outer surfaceof the second axial side 2035 may be frustoconical and define the void2033.

The packer and wiper 2001 may include attachment portions 2020A, B. Theattachment portions 2020A, B may be configured to move radially-inwardto grip the tubular 2000 when a radial force is applied. In at least oneembodiment, the attachment portions 2020A, B may be splines, metal mesh,collapsible metal with holes, etc. The attachment portions 2020A, B maybe unitary, segmented, cut along an axial line, etc. As shown, a firstattachment portion 2020A may be positioned axially-between the first endring 2016 and the packer and wiper members 2032A, B, and a secondattachment portion 2020B may be positioned axially-between the packerand wiper members 2032A, B and the second end ring 2018. The attachmentportions 2020A, B may define recesses that extend radially-inward fromthe outer surface of the packer and wiper 2001 with respect to thelongitudinal axis of the tubular 2000. The flexible members 2004A, B maybe wrapped around the packer and wiper 2001 to secure the packer andwiper 2001 to the tubular 2000. More particularly, the flexible members2004A, B may be wrapped (e.g., helically) around the attachment portions2020A, B, respectively, to provide a radially-inward gripping forceagainst the tubular 2000. An adhesive 2002A, B may be disposed withinthe recesses formed by the attachment portions 2020A, B, respectively.The adhesive 2002A, B may at least partially surround the wraps of theflexible members 2004A, B. In at least one embodiment, a shell, asdescribed above with respect to PCT Application No. PCT/EP2013/057416,may be placed around the flexible members 2004A, B.

FIG. 20C illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the packer and wiper2001 attached to the tubular 2000, according to an embodiment. Thepacker and wiper members 2032A, B may be circumferentially-offset fromone another around the longitudinal axis of the tubular 2000. Although24 packer and wiper members 2032A, B are shown, it will be appreciatedthat more or fewer packer and wiper members 2032A, B may be implemented.As shown, the outer surface of the packer and wiper members 2032A, B maybe positioned radially-outward from the end ring 2016.

FIG. 21A illustrates a perspective view of a control line protector 2101attached to a tubular 2100 using a flexible member 2104, according to anembodiment. The control line protector 2101 may include first and secondend rings 2116, 2118 that are axially-offset from one another along thetubular 2100. Each end ring 2116, 2118 may include one or more slots2146, 2148 formed axially therethrough. In addition, each end ring 2116,2118 may include a void 2142 that provides a lateral path into thecorresponding slot 2146, 2148 (e.g., in a radially-inward direction).

A protected pathway or conduit 2138A, B may be disposed within the slots2146, 2148. As shown, the conduit 2138A may extend through the slot 2148in the first end ring 2116 and through the slot 2146 in the second endring 2118. The conduits 2138A, B may be parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the tubular 2100. In other embodiments, the conduits 2138A, Bmay be in a helical formation around the tubular 2100. The conduits2138A, B may include a slit or opening 2144 formed axially therethrough,and one or more cables or lines may extend through the opening 2144. Thecables may be or include control lines for transmitting power,communication signals, fluids, and the like.

FIG. 21B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the control lineprotector 2101 attached to the tubular 2100, according to an embodiment.The control line protector 2101 may include one or more attachmentportions (one is shown: 2120). The attachment portion 2120 may beconfigured to move radially-inward to grip the tubular 2100 when aradial force is applied. In at least one embodiment, the attachmentportion 2120 may be splines, metal mesh, collapsible metal with holes,etc. The attachment portion 2120 may be unitary, segmented, cut along anaxial line, etc. The attachment portion 2120 may be positionedaxially-between the end rings 2116, 2118. The attachment portion 2120may define a recess that extends radially-inward from the outer surfaceof the control line protector 2101 with respect to the longitudinal axisof the tubular 2100. The flexible member 2104 may be wrapped around thecontrol line protector 2101 to secure the control line protector 2101 tothe tubular 2100. More particularly, the flexible member 2104 may bewrapped (e.g., helically) around the attachment portion 2120 to providea radially-inward gripping force against the tubular 2100. An adhesive2102 may be disposed within the recess formed by the attachment portion2120. The adhesive 2102 may at least partially surround the wraps of theflexible member 2104. The conduits 2138A, B may be positioned radiallyoutward from the flexible member 2104 and/or the adhesive 2102. In atleast one embodiment, a shell, as described above with respect to PCTApplication No. PCT/EP2013/057416, may be placed around the flexiblemembers 2104.

FIG. 21C illustrates an end view of the control line protector 2101attached to the tubular 2100, according to an embodiment. The conduits2138A, B may be circumferentially-offset from one another around thelongitudinal axis of the tubular 2100. Although two conduits 2138A, Bare shown, it will be appreciated that more or fewer conduits 2138A, Bmay be used.

FIG. 22A illustrates a perspective view of a cylindrical housing 2201attached to a tubular 2200 using flexible members 2204A, B, according toan embodiment. The cylindrical housing 2201 may include a plurality ofsegments 2232A, B that are circumferentially-offset from one another.The cylindrical housing 2201 may be positioned axially-between opposingend rings 2216, 2218.

FIG. 22B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the cylindricalhousing 2201 attached to the tubular 2200, according to an embodiment.The cylindrical housing 2201 may define an annular chamber 2250 therein.The chamber 2250 may be sealed to prevent fluids from flowing into thechamber 2250 from an exterior of the cylindrical housing 2201, or viceversa. In at least one embodiment, the chamber 2250 may have one or moresensors, actuators, or other devices disposed therein.

The cylindrical housing 2201 may include one or more attachment portions2220A, B. The attachment portions 2220A, B may be configured to moveradially-inward to grip the tubular 2200 when a radial force is applied.In at least one embodiment, the attachment portions 2220A, B may besplines, metal mesh, collapsible metal with holes, etc. The attachmentportions 2220A, B may be unitary, segmented, cut along an axial line,etc. For example, a first attachment portion 2220A may be positionedaxially-between the first end ring 2216 and the chamber 2250, and asecond attachment portion 2220B may be positioned axially-between thechamber 2250 and the second end ring 2218. The attachment portion 2220A,B may define recesses that extend radially-inward from the outer surfaceof the cylindrical housing 2201 with respect to the longitudinal axis ofthe tubular 2200. The flexible members 2204A, B may be wrapped aroundthe cylindrical housing 2201 to secure the cylindrical housing 2201 tothe tubular 2200. More particularly, the flexible members 2204A, B maybe wrapped (e.g., helically) around the attachment portions 2220A, B,respectively, to provide a radially-inward gripping force against thetubular 2200. An adhesive 2202A, B may be disposed within the recessesformed by the attachment portions 2220A, B, respectively. The adhesive2202A, B may at least partially surround the wraps of the flexiblemembers 2204A, B. In at least one embodiment, a shell, as describedabove with respect to PCT Application No. PCT/EP2013/057416, may beplaced around the flexible members 2204A, B.

FIG. 22C illustrates an end view of the cylindrical housing 2201attached to the tubular 2200, according to an embodiment. The segments2232A, B may be circumferentially-offset from one another around thelongitudinal axis of the tubular 2000. Although 24 segments 2232A, B areshown, it will be appreciated that more or fewer segments 2232A, B maybe implemented. As shown, the outer surface of the segments 2232A, B maybe positioned radially-outward from the end ring 2216.

FIG. 23A illustrates a perspective view of a spiral blade 2301 attachedto a tubular 2300, according to an embodiment. A flexible member 2304may be wrapped (e.g., helically) around the tubular 2300 to form thespiral blade 2301 on the tubular 2300. An adhesive 2302 may be disposedat least partially around the outer surface of the tubular 2300 and/orthe flexible member 2304.

FIGS. 23B and 23C illustrate a side cross-sectional view, and an endview, respectively, of the spiral blade 2301 attached to the tubular2300, according to an embodiment. The cross-sectional profile of theadhesive 2302 may be substantially arcuate, and the outermost radialsurface of the flexible member 2304 may be positioned radially-inwardfrom or flush with the outer surface of the adhesive 2302. As shown, theflexible member 2304 may be surrounded by the adhesive 2302.

FIG. 24A illustrates a perspective view of a passive flow turbulator2401 attached to a tubular 2400 using flexible members 2404A, B,according to an embodiment. A first flexible member 2452 may be wrapped(e.g., helically) around the tubular 2400. The first flexible member2452 may have one or more blades 2454A-D coupled thereto and spacedaxially-apart along the first flexible member 2452. The blades 2454A-Dmay extend radially-outward from the first flexible member 2452 and thetubular 2400 with respect to the longitudinal axis of the tubular 2400when the first flexible member 2452 is wrapped around the tubular 2400.The first flexible member 2452 and the blades 2454A-D may be positionedaxially-between opposing end rings 2416, 2418.

FIG. 24B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the passive flowturbulator 2401 attached to the tubular 2400, according to anembodiment. The passive flow turbulator 2401 may include attachmentportions 2420A, B. The attachment portions 2420A, B may be configured tomove radially-inward to grip the tubular 2400 when a radial force isapplied. In at least one embodiment, the attachment portions 2420A, Bmay be splines, metal mesh, collapsible metal with holes, etc. Theattachment portions 2420A, B may be positioned on opposing axial sidesof the first flexible member 2452 and/or the blades 2454A-D. Theattachment portions 2420A,B may be unitary, segmented, cut along anaxial line, etc. The attachment portions 2420A, B may define recessesthat extend radially inward with respect to the longitudinal axis of thetubular 2400. Second and third flexible members 2404A, B may be wrappedaround the passive flow turbulator 2401 to secure the passive flowturbulator 2401 to the tubular 2400. More particularly, the second andthird flexible members 2404A, B may be wrapped (e.g., helically) aroundthe attachment portions 2420A, B, respectively, to provide aradially-inward gripping force against the tubular 2400. An adhesive2402A, B may be disposed within the recesses formed by the attachmentportions 2420A, B, respectively. The adhesive 2402A, B may at leastpartially surround the wraps of the second and third flexible members2404A, B. In at least one embodiment, a shell, as described above withrespect to PCT Application No. PCT/EP2013/057416, may be placed aroundthe flexible members 2404A, B.

FIG. 24C illustrates an end view of the passive flow turbulator 2401attached to the tubular 2400, according to an embodiment. The blades2454A-D may be circumferentially-offset from one another around thelongitudinal axis of the tubular 2400. Although 4 blades 2454A-D areshown, it will be appreciated that more or fewer blades 2454A-D may beimplemented.

FIG. 25 illustrates a flowchart of a method 2500 for installing adownhole tool on a tubular, according to an embodiment. The method 2500may be best understood with reference to FIGS. 1-24 and, moreparticularly, FIGS. 16-24; however, it will be appreciated that themethod 2500 is not limited to any particular structure, unless otherwisespecifically stated herein.

The method 2500 may include positioning a body on an outer surface of atubular, as at 2502. The body may be or include, for example, the insert1630A (FIG. 16), the scraper 1701 (FIG. 17), the hole opener 1801 (FIG.18), the cement basket 1901 (FIG. 19), the packer and wiper 2001 (FIG.20), the control line protector 2101 (FIG. 21), the cylindrical housing2201 (FIG. 22), or the like. An outer surface of the body may include arecess formed therein. The recess may be formed in an end ring that iscoupled to or integral with the body. In at least one embodiment, thebody may include two end rings that are axially offset from one another,and each end ring may include a recess.

A flexible member may be wrapped more than once around the body, as at2504. For example, the flexible member may be helically wrapped aroundthe tubular such that the flexible member defines a plurality ofaxially-adjacent turns. In another example, the flexible member may beheated, such that it shrinks, during or after the winding process. In anembodiment, the flexible member may be concentrically wrapped around thetubular. Such helical and concentric embodiments may provide one or moreradially-adjacent layers of the flexible member. In addition, in someembodiments, the flexible member may be pre-coiled (or pre-wound),expanded, and slid over the tubular. The flexible member may bepositioned at least partially within the recess. When the body includestwo end rings, a first flexible member may be positioned at leastpartially within the recess of the first end ring, and a second flexiblemember may be positioned at least partially within the recess of thesecond end ring.

A tension force may be applied to the flexible member(s), as at 2506.For example, the tension force may be applied to the flexible memberwhile wrapping the flexible member around the tubular. In anotherexample, the tension force may be applied to ends of a mandrel of theflexible member disposed within a sheath of the flexible member, suchthat the mandrel moves relative to the sheath. In another example, theflexible member may be radially-contracting to apply the tension force,such as by allowing a helical spring of the flexible member to contract.The tension force may cause the flexible member to apply aradially-inward gripping force on the body and/or the tubular.

In at least one embodiment, an adhesive may be applied to the flexiblemember, as at 2508. The adhesive may at least partially surround and/orcover the flexible member in the recess.

The foregoing has outlined features of several embodiments so that thoseskilled in the art may better understand the present disclosure. Thoseskilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use thepresent disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processesand structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving thesame advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled inthe art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do notdepart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and thatthey may make various changes, substitutions, and alterations hereinwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A downhole tool, comprising: a body configured tobe positioned on an outer surface of a tubular; and a flexible memberconfigured to extend circumferentially around the body more than once,wherein the body is configured to be positioned radially-between theouter surface of the tubular and the flexible member, and wherein, whenthe tool is installed, a tension force on the flexible member causes theflexible member to apply a radially-inward gripping force on the bodyand the tubular.
 2. The downhole tool of claim 1, wherein the bodycomprises a longitudinal conduit or cable for transmitting power,communication signals, fluids, or a combination thereof.
 3. The downholetool of claim 2, wherein the body is wrapped helically around the outersurface of the tubular, and wherein a lead of the body is less than acorresponding lead of the flexible member, a pitch of the body is lessthan a corresponding pitch of the flexible member, or both.
 4. Thedownhole tool of claim 3, wherein the body comprises two or more bodiesthat are circumferentially-offset from one another around the tubular.5. The downhole tool of claim 1, wherein the body has a recess formed inan outer surface thereof, and wherein the flexible member is at leastpartially disposed within the recess.
 6. The downhole tool of claim 5,further comprising an adhesive disposed within the recess, wherein theadhesive is in contact with the flexible member.
 7. The downhole tool ofclaim 5, wherein the body further comprises a plurality of bladesextending radially-outward therefrom that are circumferentially-offsetfrom one another, wherein each blade has a plurality of angled notchesformed in an outer surface thereof that are axially-offset from oneanother, and wherein the blades are axially-offset from the flexiblemember.
 8. The downhole tool of claim 5, wherein the body furthercomprises a plurality of blades extending radially-outward therefromthat are circumferentially-offset from one another, wherein each bladecomprises first and second axial sides, wherein a distance between anouter surface of the first axial side and the outer surface of thetubular increases moving in a first axial direction, wherein a distancebetween an outer surface of the second axial side and the outer surfaceof the tubular decreases moving in the first axial direction, andwherein the outer surface of the second axial side comprises a pluralityof teeth.
 9. The downhole tool of claim 5, wherein the body furthercomprises a plurality of bows extending radially-outward therefrom, theplurality of bows being circumferentially-offset from one another andforming a frustoconical basket, and wherein a void is defined betweenthe outer surface of the tubular and the inner surface of the basket.10. The downhole tool of claim 5, wherein the body further comprises aplurality of members extending radially-outward therefrom that arecircumferentially-offset from one another, wherein each member comprisesfirst and second axial sides, wherein a distance between an outersurface of the first axial side and the outer surface of the tubularincreases moving in a first axial direction, and wherein a distancebetween an outer surface of the second axial side and the outer surfaceof the tubular also increases moving in the first axial direction. 11.The downhole tool of claim 5, wherein the body further defines an axialslot extending at least partially therethrough, wherein a conduit isdisposed within the slot, and wherein the conduit is positionedradially-outward from the flexible member.
 12. The downhole tool ofclaim 5, wherein the body defines an annular chamber therein.
 13. Adownhole tool, comprising: a body configured to be positioned on anouter surface of a tubular, wherein the body comprises first and secondend rings and a middle portion positioned axially-between the first andsecond end rings, wherein outer surfaces of the first and second endrings each have a recess formed therein, and wherein the middle portionextends radially-outward from the first and second end rings; and firstand second flexible members each configured to extendcircumferentially-around the body more than once, wherein, when receivedaround the body, the first and second flexible members are at leastpartially positioned within the recesses of the first and second endrings, respectively, and wherein, when the tool is installed, a tensionforce on the first and second flexible members causes the first andsecond flexible members to apply a radially-inward gripping force on thefirst and second end rings and the tubular.
 14. The downhole tool ofclaim 13, wherein the middle portion comprises a plurality of bladesthat are circumferentially-offset from one another, wherein each bladehas a plurality of angled notches formed in an outer surface thereofthat are axially-offset from one another, and wherein the blades areaxially-between the first and second end rings.
 15. The downhole tool ofclaim 13, wherein the body further comprises a plurality of bladesextending that are circumferentially-offset from one another, whereineach blade comprises first and second axial sides, wherein a distancebetween an outer surface of the first axial side and the outer surfaceof the tubular increases moving in a first axial direction, wherein adistance between an outer surface of the second axial side and the outersurface of the tubular decreases moving in the first axial direction,and wherein the outer surface of the second axial side comprises aplurality of teeth.
 16. The downhole tool of claim 13, wherein the bodyfurther comprises a plurality of members that arecircumferentially-offset from one another, wherein each member comprisesfirst and second axial sides, wherein a distance between an outersurface of the first axial side and the outer surface of the tubularincreases moving in a first axial direction, and wherein a distancebetween an outer surface of the second axial side and the outer surfaceof the tubular also increases moving in the first axial direction. 17.The downhole tool of claim 13, wherein the body defines an annularchamber therein.
 18. A method for installing a downhole tool on atubular, comprising: positioning a body on an outer surface of thetubular, wherein the body has a first recess formed in an outer surfacethereof; wrapping a first flexible member more than once around thebody, wherein the first flexible member is positioned at least partiallywithin the first recess; and causing a first tension force to be appliedto the first flexible member, wherein the first tension force causes thefirst flexible member to apply a radially-inward gripping force on thebody and the tubular.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprisingplacing an adhesive within the first recess, wherein the adhesive is incontact with the first flexible member.
 20. The method of claim 19,wherein the body has a second recess formed in the outer surfacethereof, wherein the second recess is axially-offset from the firstrecess, and further comprising: wrapping a second flexible member morethan once around the body, wherein the second flexible is positioned atleast partially within the second recess; and causing a second tensionforce to be applied to the second flexible member, wherein the secondtension force causes the second flexible member to apply aradially-inward gripping force on the body and the tubular.